On the record
I mean that, in general, rules imposed upon a society from above for its benefit are less effective to the end that they seek than rules which have grown naturally from below.
Said by
Harold J. Laski
Source
gutenberg.orgHarold J. Laski: “I mean that, in general, rules imposed upon a society from above for its benefit are less effective to the end that they…”
Editor's note · Context
This quote reflects Laski's belief in the efficacy of rules that emerge organically from society rather than being imposed externally.
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More from Harold J. Laski
The essence of the persecuting position is always that the persecutor has hold of truth and that he would betray its service by allowing it to be questioned.
He is able, accordingly, to indulge in the twofold luxury not only of preserving his own authority, but also of assisting the persons attacked to enter, if they so choose, the way of truth.
Ultimately, that denial is always made upon the same ground: it is insisted that the doctrines or practices attacked are subversive of the civil order.
It has been the historic character of persecution always to degrade the persecutor and to strengthen the persecuted by drawing attention to their claims.
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